When mailing your resume to prospective employers, it should always be accompanied by a cover letter.

A well-written and informative cover letter will spark the interest of prospective employers and cause them to read your resume more carefully. Cover letters are used to introduce you to the employer, communicate a personalized message about what you can contribute to that particular organization, and to ask for an interview. Make sure to tailor your letters for each employer, because letters that are mass produced and generic are unappealing.

The Cover Letter Is A Formal Business Letter

Your letter should be written in a block or modified block style and should be signed in blue or black ink. An effective letter will not exceed one page in length and will be clear and concise. If you are using e-mail to apply for a position, the cover letter should be used as the body of your e-mail with your resume included as an attachment. The subject line of the e-mail should state the position you are applying for.

Each Letter Should Be Written Specifically For The Company And Position You Are Seeking

You should never send out two identical letters. Each letter should be addressed to a specific individual. You can obtain these contact names through business listings, the Career Development and Leadership Center, or a phone call to the organization. When you cannot locate a specific name, be creative. Something as simple as “Hello” for a greeting would be more acceptable than “To Whom it May Concern,” or “Dear Sir/Madam.” It is also important to verify the spelling of names, titles, and company/organizational addresses.

Remember that this is the first document the employer will read. Give it as much attention as you give your resume. A sloppy cover letter can easily keep your resume from being considered.

The Cover Letter Should Contain Approximately Four Paragraphs

Paragraph One: Should indicate where or how you were informed of the position opening. It should also indicate your interest in the position.

Paragraph Two: Should outline your qualifications for the position. Here you should draw attention to your resume by mentioning areas that best outline your qualifications for the position in question.

Paragraph Three: Should explain why you are a good fit for the organization. This will take some research on the company. For example, you might want to include information about the mission statement, strategic plan, or values of the company.

Paragraph Four: Should reiterate your interest in the position and request an interview. Indicate to the reader when you will be available or when you will contact them to arrange a meeting time.

Finally, the word “enclosure(s)” placed in the lower left corner of the letter will indicate to the employer that you have included your resume and/or other pertinent information with your letter.

Take A Look At These Samples To Help Jumpstart The Cover Letter Writing Process